Photo: ©iStock/Albina Gavrilovic

(10/02/2025) Researchers from the Philadelphia VA entered into a cooperative research and development agreement with DiscGenics, Inc., to develop a new bioengineered spinal disc replacement. In the first instance of a human-sized intervertebral disc replacement being created from a human cell source, the researchers used stem cells derived from a non-living human donor to generate the basic structure of a spinal disc. The new technique created a more stable tissue structure than other approaches using animal or other types of human cells. Spinal discs serve as a flexible buffer between bony spinal vertebrae and consist of a gel-like inner substance surrounded by a fibrous outer structure, which provides support and strength. Most patients suffering from end-stage disc degeneration and back pain are currently treated with either spinal fusion or artificial disc replacement. Spinal fusion is effective in relieving pain but limits movement and may lead to future complications, while currently available artificial discs have issues with safety and durability. While the findings of this study were preliminary, they provide direction for future artificial disc replacement therapies that could lead to better treatments for Veterans with chronic back pain. (Tissue Engineering Part A, Sep. 5, 2025)